Current Close Air Support Doctrine: Out of Step With New Technology and Urban CAS Requirements
Abstract
One of the most significant, observable global trends with operational implications is the expanding urbanization and shifting demographics of the developing world. These trends in population growth and urbanization will have a direct impact on U.S. military doctrine as U.S. forces experiment and train for urban military combat operations. U.S. rapid deployment forces continue to focus on light infantry units heavily supported by flexible expeditionary air forces; yet, current Close Air Support (CAS) doctrine has not realistically addressed the lethality or limitations that the urban battle space presents terminal controller or the delivering platform. A doctrinal sanctuary exists in current CAS doctrine, particularly within the urban battle space, where the target is beyond the visual sight of the terminal controller yet within the close proximity/detailed integration distance that requires it to be attacked via CAS.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 18, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA393608
Entities
People
- Glenn M. Hoppe
Organizations
- Naval War College